Stage 1 fire restrictions begin in SFFD

Posted Jun 21, 2018

SOUTH FORK— Beginning June 18, Stage 1 fire restrictions began within the South Fork Fire District. In cooperation with the Rio Grande County Sheriff, Rio Grande County Commissioners and the South Fork Fire District, the decision was made to put Stage 1 restrictions into effect. The South Fork Fire District is any and all land west of Rio Grande County Road 18 and Highway 160 to the summit of Wolf Creek Pass and north on Highway 149 to mile post 7 ½.Due to the extreme fire weather conditions and the proximity to national forests, precautions are being taken to reduce the risk of potentially large fires, such as the 416 Fire and Burro Fire near Durango.Stage 1 restrictions (no open burning)1. Fires, campfires, or stove fires, including, but not limited to, charcoal grills, hibachis and coal or wood burning stovesExceptions allowed:Campfires in developed campgrounds or picnic grounds within provided, manufactured fire grates and grills.Petroleum fueled stoves or lanterns that use gas, jellied petroleum, or pressurized liquid fuel.Fully enclosed (sheepherder type) stove with a ¼” spark arrester type screen.2. Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, or in a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials.3. Chainsaws MUST have attached a USDA Forest Service or SAE approved arrester. Operators MUST have in their possession of a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher with a minimum rating of 2A and a round-pointed shovel with an overall length of at least 35 inches.4. Welding or operating acetylene or other torch with an open flame, except in cleared areas of at least 10 feet in diameter and MUST be in possession of a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher with a minimum rating of 2A.5. Explosives, including fireworks, tracer bullets and exploding targets.This restriction will be in place until further notice.